Commission sets tentative millage at 5.835 in first public hearing

The commission held the first public hearing on the proposed millage for fiscal year 2026–27 and approved a tentative rate described at the hearing as 5.835. The attorney reading the resolution told the body the action begins the statutorily required notice and hearing process under Chapter 200.065 of the Florida Statutes.

Staff and commissioners framed the proposed rate in the context of rising personnel and benefit costs for public safety. In introducing the resolutions, the attorney said, "the tentative proposed millage rate is 5.83570." Commissioners and staff noted ongoing pressures from pension and health‑insurance costs that drove budget adjustments, and staff said the city has sought to limit millage increases while covering those obligations. The commission voted to set the tentative millage and scheduled the second and final public hearing for Sept. 24 at 5:30 p.m.